In preparation for the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8th, FOX Weather has begun providing cloud cover probabilities for areas along the path of totality. With just two weeks to go, early forecasting shows a higher likelihood of a mostly clear sky in certain regions of Texas, Arkansas, New York, and Maine.

The total solar eclipse, which occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, will be visible across parts of Mexico, Canada, and several states in the U.S., stretching from Texas to Maine. This rare celestial event will completely block the face of the Sun for several minutes, and it is expected to be the last time a total solar eclipse passes over a large part of the U.S. until 2044.

To fully experience the eclipse, viewers will need a pair of solar glasses and must be located along the more than 100-mile wide path during totality. A clear sky is also crucial for optimal viewing.

The FOX Forecast Center has compiled a color-coded map, indicating areas that are more or less likely to be impacted by cloud cover during the eclipse. While the forecasting models will continue to improve as the event approaches, the current data suggests that San Antonio, Dallas, Little Rock, and Paducah are among the locations with lower probabilities of heavy cloud cover on April 8th. These areas, represented by the color green on the map, offer the best chances of witnessing the solar eclipse.

FOX Meteorologist Adam Klotz explained that this forecast is based on a combination of historical climatology and long-range forecasting. Regions with lower cloud cover averages were taken into consideration, which is why the aforementioned areas were highlighted in green.

Notably, many areas in Texas are preparing for the influx of traffic and visitors expected for the solar eclipse. Some counties along the path of totality have already declared states of emergency.

In addition to Texas, there is high confidence in lower cloud cover in parts of New York and Maine. However, cloud cover chances increase in the middle of the eclipse path, near St. Louis and Nashville. Locations such as Chicago and Cincinnati have a higher probability of seeing more widespread cloud cover during the eclipse.

To back up the early forecasts, FOX Weather has examined cloud cover climatology data from the past 30 years. This data aligns with the initial eclipse forecast for 2024.

It's important to note that even if there are clouds, viewers will likely still catch glimpses of the eclipse. However, a more detailed forecast will be available approximately one week before the event. Viewers are encouraged to check back with FOX Weather for updates as the date approaches and to add their viewing location to the "Events" tab in the FOX Weather app.

With FOX Weather's cloud cover probabilities, viewers along the path of totality can better plan their eclipse-watching experience and increase their chances of witnessing this awe-inspiring phenomenon.